March 31st, 2006 marked the one-year anniversary of Terri Schiavo’s death.
More than any other story, Ms. Schiavo’s situation brought the need for
living wills/health care directives and other advance directives to the forefront
of everyone’s attention. In the past year, an unprecedented number of
people have explored their personal health care desires and made plans for their
end-of-life wishes.
However, despite the increased attention and understanding, most American still
have not put their wishes down on paper. A recent study by the Pew Research
Center found that, although 70% of Americans had given thought to end-of-life
treatment, only 29% have a living will/health care directive.
And even if you have already completed these documents, it is important to review
them periodically to see if they still reflect your wishes.
A number of organizations are commemorating this anniversary by stepping up
attempts to promote advance care planning. For instance, this month Caring Connections,
a national program providing education on this topic, is urging Americans to
wear a white ribbon to raise awareness, particularly on March 31st in memory
of Terri Schiavo.
The best way to make sure your wishes are known and fully protected legally
is to have your attorney draft the appropriate documents with you. A health
care directive, health care power of attorney and HIPAA release are all important
elements of your health care planning that we at Armstrong Fisch & Tutoli
can help you prepare. We also give you a membership in DocuBank, which provides
emergency access to these directives and ensures that these important documents
will be available whenever you need them, even in an emergency, day or night,
anywhere in the world. Carrying your DocuBank Emergency Access card in your
wallet is like carrying your documents with you at all times.
There’s no better time to make sure your health care wishes are known
and up-to-date. Whether you’re ready to begin the process or you need
to update your existing documents, Armstrong Fisch & Tutoli is ready to
help.
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